Encouragement on SermonAudio

A brief bit of encouragement for the journey from God's Word. Today's Scripture reading: 2 Samuel 6 To support this devotional ministry: https://faithbaptiststerling.com/give/ Music: "Awaken the Dawn" by Stanton Lanierhttps://www.stantonlanier.com CCLI #20109360

This discussion explores the final stages of the Christian journey as depicted in Bunyan's Pilgrim's Progress, focusing on the transition from Beulah Land to the Celestial City. The speakers examine the spiritual peace and anticipation experienced by believers nearing death, contrasting it with the lingering struggles of faith and doubt. They analyze how suffering and trials serve to build endurance and hope, reminding listeners that outward prosperity is not a guarantee of divine favor. The conversation highlights the comfort found in Christ's victory over death and the promise of perfect worship in eternity. Ultimately, the sermon encourages believers to fix their eyes on Jesus and remain faithful to the narrow path until the end.

Pastor Don's Books: https://ttwpress.com 2803 - https://www.thetruthpulpit.com

Dealing with depression or discouragement in your life? Tune in as Dr. Mark Hamby and co-host, Molly Mayo are joined by Professor Colin Smith to see what the Book of Hebrews has to say about moving from discouragement to encouragement. Our mission at Lamplighter Ministries is to make ready a people prepared for the Lord, by building Christlike character, one story at a time. To learn more about our family collection of rare books, dramatic audios or guild programs visit lamplighter.net. Looking for a Christian college that offers more than a degree? We understand that it's a challenge and that's why we created The Masters Guild. The Masters Guild will prepare you to think theo-logically, how God thinks, in order to live theo-centrically—how Jesus lived! Thirty years in the making, a new educational model has been launched. Built upon time-tested philosophies, this new educational platform will prepare students morally, educationally, philosophically, and theologically. THE MASTERS GUILD has implemented a cutting-edge approach to education that will prepare students to be productive, creative, and entrepreneurial. Visit themastersguild.net for more information. The views and opinions expressed in this podcast do not necessarily reflect the beliefs and mission of Lamplighter Ministries. Our standard is the Bible, and we encourage listeners to always test everything heard in this podcast against the truths of Scripture.

Jesse Duplantis claimed that YouTube demonetized his channel because it was receiving too many views and that the platform told him he was outperforming Jimmy Kimmel. Justin Peters compares that claim with publicly available channel statistics and demonstrates the enormous disparity between the two audiences. He then addresses the deeper biblical issue: false teachers are repeatedly characterized by greed, deception, and the exploitation of those who trust them. In this episode of Sound Theology and Discernment, Justin explains why Christians must take dishonesty seriously, especially when it comes from someone who regularly claims to speak for God. Believers must test every teacher, every spiritual claim, and every alleged revelation by the sufficient and authoritative Word of God. For more from Justin Peters, please visit: https://servantsofgrace.org/justin-peters-sound-theology/ This video first appeared on Justin Peters' YouTube channel and is posted here with his permission: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zXztggriNzc&t=1s

This sermon provides a comprehensive review of the pastoral epistle on the book of Second Timothy as a guide for church leadership and doctrine. It highlights key themes such as unshakable faith in Christ, the power of Scripture to equip believers, and the necessity of enduring hardship without shame. The preacher emphasizes the importance of holding fast to sound teaching while rejecting false teachers who possess only a form of godliness. Through Paul's instructions to Timothy, the message encourages ministers and laypeople alike to remain faithful, study the Word accurately, and proclaim the gospel boldly despite cultural opposition. Ultimately, the sermon calls for steadfast obedience to God's truth in anticipation of eternal reward.

Anchored in the Word Morning Reflection: Season 5 Episode 161 Embracing God's Design to Shape the Next Generation: Intro Ephesians 6:1-4 #morningreflections #strength #wisdom #mentoring #family

The Morning Devotional Season 11 | Edition 72 Psalm 112 Providence Presbyterian Church Evansville, IN Pastor's Website: https://theparchment.net/ This devotional explores Psalm 112, highlighting the profound blessings that come to those who fear the Lord and delight in His commandments. The sermon emphasizes that true righteousness manifests through generous giving, justice, and steadfast trust in God amidst life's uncertainties. It contrasts the secure, unshakable hope of the upright with the ultimate futility faced by the wicked. The message encourages believers to embody these godly characteristics as a natural outflow of sanctification and gratitude for Christ's sacrifice. Ultimately, it calls Christians to live lives of praise that extend beyond words into tangible acts of mercy and faith.

The Morning Devotional Season 11 | Edition 72 August 17, 2026 Psalm 112 This devotional explores Psalm 112, presenting the blessed life of a person who fears the Lord and delights in His commandments. The text highlights that true righteousness results in spiritual stability, generosity toward the poor, and an unshakable trust in God amidst adversity. It emphasizes that these godly characteristics are not innate but are cultivated through the work of the Holy Spirit in the process of sanctification. The message encourages believers to live out their faith through actions that reflect God's grace and justice, rather than merely offering verbal praise. Ultimately, it calls Christians to emulate Christ by trusting in divine sovereignty and extending mercy to others.

The sermon explores the profound connection between fearing God and experiencing deep intimacy with Him, drawing primarily from Psalm 25. It argues that reverence for the Lord is not a barrier to closeness but rather the pathway to friendship, covenant revelation, and spiritual instruction. By examining David's prayers and historical examples of faithfulness, the text emphasizes that humility and the forgiveness of sins enable believers to approach God with boldness and trust. The central message encourages Christians to grow in their fear of God as a means to receive His mercy, guidance, and eternal life through Jesus Christ. Ultimately, this reverent relationship brings peace to the soul and extends blessings to future generations.

The speaker expresses deep gratitude to Hunt Valley Baptist Church for their support during his tenure, attributing all personal achievements to God's grace. Drawing from Philippians 1, he emphasizes the importance of abounding love, discerning what is excellent, and maintaining sincerity in ministry. He shares his personal testimony of salvation and reflects on the joy of serving alongside a faithful community that values humility and spiritual growth. The message encourages believers to remain authentic and dedicated to their service, ensuring that all efforts bring glory to God rather than seeking human praise. Ultimately, it serves as a farewell tribute that celebrates shared memories and the enduring bonds of fellowship within the body of Christ.

The sermon emphasizes personal accountability and the necessity of repentance, asserting that individuals are responsible for their own sins rather than inheriting the guilt of their ancestors. Drawing primarily from Ezekiel 18, the message clarifies that while God judges each person according to their own actions, His grace offers hope through forgiveness and a new heart in Jesus Christ. The preacher encourages believers to actively resist worldly lust and temptation by walking in the Spirit, as outlined in passages like Galatians 5 and Titus 2. It stresses that maintaining a close fellowship with God is essential for spiritual growth and overcoming the struggles of the flesh. Ultimately, the message calls listeners to turn away from sin immediately and rely on God's mercy to restore their relationship with Him.

He that handleth a matter wisely shall find good: and whoso trusteth in the LORD, happy is he. (Proverbs 16:20) *1/ Handling the matter of our own souls salvation wisely. 2/ Handling the matter of a sinful heart wisely. 3/ Scriptural principles for handling matters wisely. 4/ Some further examples from scripture of handling matters wisely.* There was not time to look at the further examples. They are: *- Abraham maintaining peace with Lot - Genesis 13:8-9* *- Abigail pacifying David's anger - 1 Samuel 25:18-35* *- David encouraging himself in the Lord his God. 1 Samuel 30:6* *- Mordecai advising Queen Esther - Esther 4:13-14* **Sermon Summary:** The sermon explores the biblical imperative to handle life's critical matters with divine wisdom, drawing primarily from Proverbs 16:20. It contrasts King Rehoboam's foolish rejection of wise counsel with Daniel's prudent reliance on God in the face of death. *(1 Kings 12:1-16 and Daniel 2:1-30)* The preacher emphasizes that believers must prioritize their own soul's salvation and the ongoing battle against a sinful heart by seeking God's guidance through prayer and Scripture. By examining these scriptural examples, the message urges listeners to trust in God's sovereignty and seek heavenly wisdom rather than relying on human understanding or hasty decisions. Ultimately, the sermon calls for a faithful, prayerful approach to daily challenges, promising blessing to those who align their actions with God's word.

The sermon contrasts the spiritual states of honoring God with despising Him, using the biblical figures of Hannah and Samuel as examples of reverence and Eli's sons Hophni and Phinehas as examples of contempt. Ultimately, the message encourages believers to hold fast to their faith amidst worldly pressures, trusting in God's promise to honor those who respect Him.

What time of the end is he referring to in this passage? And why does this time of the end matter to us today? This sermon explores Daniel chapter 8 to demonstrate God's sovereign control over history and His faithfulness to preserve His people during times of evil. The preacher identifies the ram and goat as the Medo-Persian and Greek empires, respectively, and interprets the 'little horn' as Antiochus Epiphanes, who desecrated the temple for a period symbolized by three and a half years. This specific duration serves as a biblical metaphor indicating that suffering is only halfway through God's appointed time before restoration occurs. By linking this ancient prophecy to the ultimate victory of Jesus Christ over sin and death, the message offers comfort to believers facing current trials. The central intent is to encourage hope and trust in God's power rather than despair, affirming that history belongs to Him.

John 10:27-30 'My sheep hear my voice, and I know them, and they follow me: and I give unto them eternal life; and they shall never perish, neither shall any man pluck them out of my hand. My Father, which gave them me, is greater than all; and no man is able to pluck them out of my Father's hand. I and my Father are one' The sermon explores the identity, security, and unity of believers as the people of Christ, drawing primarily from John chapter 10. It contrasts those who do not believe with true sheep who hear the Shepherd's voice and follow Him in obedience. The message emphasises that believers are eternally secure because they possess eternal life and are held securely in the hands of both Jesus and the Father. This unbreakable security is grounded in the believer's union with Christ and His co-equal unity with the Father. The preacher encourages listeners to rely on God's power rather than their own strength, affirming that salvation guarantees preservation until eternity.

The sermon explores the theme of love voluntarily surrendering its rights for the spiritual good of others, drawing primarily from 1 Corinthians 8. It contrasts Christian liberty with legalism and emphasizes that true maturity is demonstrated through self-denial rather than the assertion of personal freedoms. Christ serves as the supreme example of this surrender, having laid aside His glory to redeem humanity. The message urges believers to maintain an eternal perspective, recognizing that their actions significantly influence weaker brothers and sisters in faith. Ultimately, the preacher calls for a balance of truth and compassion, encouraging the church to build bridges of love rather than dividing over non-essential matters.

The sermon expounds Psalm 23:6, emphasizing the believer's absolute confidence in God's continuous provision and protection. It explores how divine goodness and mercy actively pursue the Christian throughout every stage of life, serving as a constant source of comfort and guidance. The preacher highlights that this assurance is rooted not in human merit but in the unchanging character and covenant faithfulness of God. By reflecting on past experiences and future hope, the message encourages believers to rest securely in Christ's sustaining power despite life's trials. Finally, it calls for a deepened trust in the Shepherd who guarantees eternal dwelling in His presence.

The sermon focuses on Psalm 119, specifically verses 65 through 72, highlighting the psalmist's gratitude for God's faithfulness despite past disobedience. It emphasizes that affliction serves a divine purpose by teaching spiritual statutes and guiding believers back to obedience. The text contrasts the pride of the wicked with the psalmist's wholehearted delight in God's law. Valuing divine instruction above material wealth, the passage encourages seeking good judgment through trust in God's word. This reflection aims to inspire a deeper appreciation for scripture as a source of moral and spiritual wisdom.

The sermon explores the true nature of faith by focusing on Hebrews chapter 11, specifically highlighting Enoch as the primary example of a life pleasing to God. It argues that the foundation of all biblical faith is not merely performing mighty deeds but maintaining a daily walk and fellowship with God. The speaker emphasizes that living by faith is a gradual, lifelong process of trusting God's timing and character rather than seeking immediate results or miraculous signs. By examining the patriarchs who walked with God, the message encourages believers to find confidence in their relationship with Christ instead of comparing themselves to others' achievements. Ultimately, the central theme asserts that faith is the essential means to please God and experience His salvation through humble dependence on Him.

In our passage this week, God will put Israel to a "test." It's not a test for God to learn something—God is all-knowing, and he certainly knows how mankind will respond. However, this test is moreso for Israel. It is a test that is meant to expose their hearts, and to expose "whether they will take care to walk in the way of the Lord." It is a great encouragement to us that in love and obedience to Christ, we're called to walk in his ways. And for a heart that loves the Lord, this means that "his commandments then become their happy joys" (as we recently sang).

Pastor Brian's sermon explores the Christian identity as pilgrims and sojourners who are called to resist conformity to a world hostile to God. It addresses the inevitable loneliness and persecution believers face, urging them to remain faithful rather than silent or compromising. The preacher outlines practical spiritual disciplines for enduring hardship, including cultivating an eternal perspective, embracing suffering as a blessing, trusting in God's protection, engaging actively in the church community, and drawing encouragement from biblical examples of faithfulness. Ultimately, the message affirms that believers are more than conquerors through Christ, equipped with divine resources to live victoriously in a fallen world.

This sermon explores Romans 9:10-13 to demonstrate that divine election is grounded entirely in God's sovereign grace rather than human merit or performance. By contrasting the choice of Jacob over Esau before their birth, the message highlights how God's purpose stands independent of human works, ethnicity, or lineage. Ultimately, believers are encouraged to rest in the unshakeable foundation of God's unfailing promise and sovereign mercy through Jesus Christ.

Today Pastor Wayne Sanders continues the series in Hebrews with an exhortation from Hebrews 3 not to harden your heart when you hear the Lord's voice calling to you. The writer of Hebrews references a passage from Psalms. It is important that we hear and obey God's voice. It could one day be a matter of life or death. Listen and know the importance of hearing first and then obeying the voice of God. God bless you this week as you work on your Christian walk!

Closing Thought: Three witnesses stand before us: the water, the blood, and the Spirit. Each points to the same truth: Jesus is the Christ, the Son of God, who came to save His people from their sins. Beloved, when doubts come or the world challenges your faith, remember that God's testimony has not changed. The message is consistent, the witnesses agree, and Christ remains the same. Believe God, rest in His Son, and encourage one another to hold fast to Him. NOTE: A suspected lightning strike from the previous night's storm knocled out the transformer to our church. So, with minimal power and no air conditioning, the church carried on. The noise you hear in the background is a large fan.

The sermon explores the absolute security of the believer's new life in Christ, contrasting it with the fear and insecurity found in various religious systems. Using the story of the Moi tribe in Indonesia, the preacher illustrates how Jesus, as the Good Shepherd, provides eternal life that cannot be lost or taken away. The message emphasizes that salvation is a personal gift from Jesus Christ, secured by His voluntary sacrifice on the cross. Believers are encouraged to listen to His voice through Scripture and follow His guidance daily. Ultimately, the Christian has a double guarantee of safety in both the hands of Jesus and God the Father.

(AI Generated Summary) The sermon explores the dual nature of the Lord's Supper as both a remembrance of Christ's past sacrifice and an anticipation of His future return. By examining 1 Corinthians 11, the text highlights how partaking in the ordinance proclaims the gospel while pointing toward the final judgment and complete redemption. The preacher contrasts the solemnity of Jesus' death with the joyful expectation of the marriage supper of the Lamb found in Revelation. This perspective transforms the ritual from a mere memorial into a hopeful anticipation of a perfect future free from sin and suffering. Ultimately, the message encourages believers to find comfort in Christ's finished work while eagerly awaiting His second coming.

In today's sermon, written for us by Dr. Luke, we learn through Jesus teaching that faith in him is better than faith in ourselves.

This sermon explores Genesis 24 as a profound narrative of divine providence and spiritual typology, illustrating how God orchestrates events behind the scenes to fulfill His purposes. The preacher analyzes the story of Abraham's servant seeking a bride for Isaac, drawing parallels to the Holy Spirit's role in calling and preparing the Church as the bride of Christ. Key themes include the sovereignty of God in human relationships, the importance of prayer, and the confirmation of biblical doctrine through historical patterns. The message emphasizes that seemingly coincidental encounters are actually divine appointments designed to draw individuals to salvation. Ultimately, the sermon encourages believers to recognize God's active presence in their lives and to respond with faith and boldness in sharing the gospel. Is Genesis 24 a picture of Jesus and the Church? Who does Abraham's servant represent in Genesis 24? Is Rebekah a picture of the Church? Does Genesis 24 contain a picture of the Rapture? Why is Abraham's servant unnamed in Genesis 24? What does Genesis 24 teach about finding a wife? Was Isaac and Rebekah's marriage arranged? Did Rebekah have a choice to marry Isaac? Why did Abraham's servant put his hand under Abraham's thigh? What does swearing on the thigh mean in the Bible? Why did Abraham send his servant to find Isaac a wife? Why couldn't Isaac marry a Canaanite woman? Why didn't Isaac go with the servant to find Rebekah? Why did Abraham say an angel would go before his servant? Did an angel help Abraham's servant find Rebekah? Why did Abraham's servant meet Rebekah at a well? Why did women gather at wells in Bible times?

The sermon addresses the pastor's recent experience with a devastating house fire and long-term health struggles, framing these events as opportunities for God to test and approve faith. Drawing parallels to Job and utilizing the Greek concept of dokimazo, the speaker emphasizes that God remains good regardless of external circumstances and uses trials to reveal His unseen work in believers' lives. The message encourages the congregation to apply a 'faith rest drill' of recalling scripture, connecting it to their situation, and trusting God amidst affliction. It further challenges the notion that spiritual growth is isolated from numerical expansion, arguing that reaching the lost with the gospel is essential for the church's mission. Ultimately, the sermon calls believers to find their infinite value in Christ and continue ministering with grace and humility.

The sermon explores the Christian life as a calling to serve Jesus Christ, utilizing the third use of the law to guide believers in honoring God. It addresses the theological pitfalls of legalism and antinomianism by emphasizing that ethical demands are fulfilled through faith and the power of the Holy Spirit rather than for salvation. Drawing from Luke 9:23 and Luke 12, the message encourages total self-denial, readiness for Christ's return, and faithful stewardship in daily responsibilities. The preacher argues that believers are united with Christ's righteousness, allowing them to pursue obedience out of gratitude and trust rather than fear. Ultimately, the Christian walk is presented as a simple yet demanding journey of constant reliance on the gospel to live faithfully in all circumstances.

Today we examine the word of the Lord Jesus Christ as He indicts the sinners who are neither good nor bad.

This sermon explores Nehemiah chapters 11 and 12, transforming a dense list of names into a testament to God's unwavering faithfulness. The preacher argues that God restores His people by establishing them in Jerusalem, extending that restoration beyond the city limits, and reestablishing proper worship through preserved priestly lines. Although this historical restoration is real, it remains incomplete, serving as a signpost pointing toward the ultimate fulfillment found in Jesus Christ. Believers are encouraged to live with confident hope, knowing that God will complete the good work He has begun. The message concludes with an exhortation to pursue holiness and faithful service while awaiting the final restoration described in Revelation.

This sermon addresses the Christian response to suffering by contrasting the instinctive 'Eliphaz reflex' of assuming punishment with the biblical truth that trials serve a refining purpose. Drawing primarily from 1 Peter 4, the message explains that fiery trials are not signs of God's abandonment but evidence of His love, designed to purify faith like gold in a furnace. Believers are exhorted to rejoice in their sufferings because they share in Christ's experiences and look forward to eternal glory. The passage also warns against self-inflicted trouble while encouraging unashamed identification with the name of Jesus amidst worldly persecution. Ultimately, Christians are called to entrust their souls to God as a faithful Creator, finding strength and hope in His sovereign care during difficult times.

This sermon examines the genealogy from Shem to Abram in Genesis 11, emphasizing that history is moving purposefully toward Christ rather than being random. The preacher contrasts human short-sightedness with God's multi-generational vision, illustrating how divine promises persist across generations despite human failure and idolatry. By analyzing the lineage and the context of the Tower of Babel, the message highlights God's steadfast love and His commitment to redeeming humanity through the line of Abraham. The speaker encourages believers to adopt a long-term perspective, urging parents to invest in their children's spiritual legacy with hope rather than despair. Ultimately, the transcript asserts that God orchestrates history to fulfill His covenant promises, offering comfort and direction for future generations. Outline: 1) Explanation: 10 Generations from Noah to Abram 2) Application: History is Going Somewhere A) Covenant Theology B) Multigenerational Vision

The sermon analyzes the letter to the church in Philadelphia through a chiastic literary structure, positioning it as the central message of Revelation chapters 2 and 3. It highlights Jesus as the Holy One and True One who holds the key of David, emphasizing His sovereign authority to open doors for gospel witness that no one can shut. The preacher contrasts the persecuted church in Smyrna with Philadelphia, noting that while believers may feel weak, God's strength is perfected in their vulnerability. A key theme is the surprising promise that persecutors from the synagogue of Satan will eventually bow down and recognize God's love for His people, illustrating the power of conversion. The message concludes by encouraging patient endurance and faithful stewardship, trusting that Jesus manages all affairs for the ultimate glory of God and the good of His church.

The sermon explores the theological concept of spiritual maturity as a progressive movement through history from creation to redemption. It draws parallels between the biblical narrative of Noah and the structured order of Christian worship, suggesting that each element of the service mirrors stages of salvation such as calling, cleansing, and consecration. The speaker emphasizes that while specific liturgical orders are not explicitly commanded in Scripture, they reflect a broader biblical pattern of moving from hearing God's word to active obedience. This framework allows believers to understand their worship as a microcosm of God's redemptive work in the world. Ultimately, the message encourages a view of worship that facilitates communion with God while commissioning believers to engage in good works within the world.

The sermon emphasizes that God uses ordinary individuals and their small offerings to accomplish extraordinary spiritual results, as illustrated by the feeding of the five thousand. It challenges listeners to move beyond focusing on their limitations and instead offer their available resources with responsibility and readiness. The message highlights that true faith involves trusting God's provision even in difficult circumstances, rather than relying on personal ability or wealth. By yielding daily duties and small gifts to Him, believers participate in His work of feeding multitudes with the gospel. Ultimately, the preacher encourages immediate surrender of one's life to God, promising that such devotion leads to eternal reward and divine multiplication.

This sermon examines Jesus' trial before the high priest and Pontius Pilate, highlighting His unwavering commitment to speaking the truth openly rather than in secret. The preacher emphasizes that Jesus' kingdom is not of this world, contrasting spiritual authority with earthly political power and rejecting any notion of violent revolution. By analyzing Jesus' interactions with Annas, Caiaphas, and Pilate, the text illustrates how believers are called to live transparently and boldly for their faith without fear of societal rejection or persecution. The narrative also uses Peter's denial as a cautionary example of the difficulty in maintaining one's profession under pressure, urging Christians to let their lives clearly reflect their allegiance to Christ. Ultimately, the message encourages the audience to stand firm on biblical truth, recognizing that all earthly authority is subordinate to God's sovereign will.

The sermon explores the spiritual privilege of being a servant of God, emphasizing that believers should approach Him with bold confidence rather than timid submission. Drawing primarily from Psalm 119, the text argues that this entitlement stems not from personal merit but from God's mercy, allowing Christians to pray with assurance for His guidance and wisdom. The preacher highlights a progression in spiritual growth where divine teaching leads to understanding, which ultimately results in knowing God's testimonies intimately through diligent pursuit and patience. This process requires active engagement and perseverance, as true knowledge of Scripture is lived out over time rather than acquired instantly. The central message encourages believers to embrace their identity as servants with boldness, trusting that God honors faith-filled petitions and perfects His work in those who wait on Him.

The sermon explores the early church's unwavering expectation of Christ's imminent return as depicted in 1 Thessalonians. It argues that this hope was not merely a future prediction but the primary motivation for holy living and evangelism among believers. The preacher contrasts this biblical focus on personal readiness with the modern tendency to obsess over prophetic signs and identifying the Antichrist. By citing multiple New Testament passages, the message emphasizes that the certainty of Jesus' return should purify one's life and strengthen communal encouragement today. Ultimately, the central call is to live in constant spiritual preparedness rather than speculative date-setting.

The sermon presents heaven as the believer's eternal home, emphasizing its tangible reality over mere fantasy. It outlines key characteristics of this destination, including a glorious reunion with loved ones and God, perpetual rejoicing free from sorrow, and ultimate rest from earthly labors. The message also highlights the radiance of the heavenly city and the distribution of rewards based on faithful service. Rooted in Revelation 21 and John 14, the preacher encourages listeners to find comfort and hope in these truths while living faithfully on earth. The central intent is to inspire confidence in salvation and eager anticipation of the believer's future inheritance with Christ.

2 Peter 1:1–10 In 2 Peter 1:1–10, Peter reminds us that God has already given us everything we need to live a godly life through knowing Jesus Christ. Our salvation is not the end of our journey; it is the beginning of a life of spiritual growth. Peter encourages us to build upon our faith by developing goodness, knowledge, self-control, perseverance, godliness, brotherly affection, and love. This means that our faith should not only be something we profess with our mouths, but something that can be seen in the way we live, treat others, respond to challenges, and make our daily decisions. God gives us the grace and power to grow, but we must be willing to make every effort to cooperate with Him. The message of this passage is that a genuine faith should produce a changed and growing life. We should not remain spiritually immature or continue living the same way year after year. Even when we face difficulties, we are called to persevere and allow God to use those experiences to strengthen our character. As we grow closer to Christ, His qualities should become more visible in us—especially love. Peter therefore challenges us to examine our lives and make sure that our faith is producing fruit. We may not be perfect, but we should be growing. God has given us what we need; now it is our responsibility to keep growing in His grace and allow Christ to be seen through our lives.

Beloved in the Lord: Every day you live, you are one day closer to death. Death is chasing you and death will win. And before death catches you, you might lose your job…lose your wife or husband…lose your mind…lose your freedom…lose your possessions. That's just the reality. But you have a great task – to build the kingdom of the Savior. He made you. He remade you. He equips you. So you have work to do. But when you look at what could happen, you could become paralyzed by fear. God wants to encourage you today through Jacob's interaction with Laban. Our headings are: 1. Laban Overtook Jacob 2. God Overtook Laban 3. Anger Overtook Jacob Our goals are: That you will rejoice God protects you from your enemies so you can complete the work he has called his redeemed children to do.

This sermon explores Psalm 3, focusing on King David's ability to rest and trust God amidst the betrayal of his son Absalom. The preacher highlights three key movements: David's honest trial, his unwavering trust in God as a shield and sustainer, and his ultimate triumph through divine salvation. By contrasting human anxiety with divine sovereignty, the message encourages believers to bring their complex troubles directly to God without pretense. It emphasizes that true peace comes not from the absence of conflict, but from the presence of a God who hears cries and sustains His people. The central call is to surrender control and find rest in the assurance that salvation belongs entirely to the Lord.